As COP30 nears in Belem, Brazil, accommodation prices are surging due to demand and limited availability, deterring potential attendees. Some rooms are listed at outrageous prices compared to previous rates, prompting criticism from local residents and advocates for equitable participation in the climate summit. The government plans to add more accommodations, while discussions continue around the significance of hosting the event in the Amazon.
As COP30 approaches in Brazil, skyrocketing accommodation prices are becoming a major concern for potential attendees. Belem, the host city, is experiencing an accommodation crisis attributed to limited housing availability and heightened demand, leading to exorbitant fees for basic lodging options. For instance, a flat on Booking.com recently listed for over $15,000 per person, a staggering 9,562% increase compared to the previous year.
An Airbnb room in a low-income area is priced at $9,320 per day, while accommodations in upscale neighborhoods can cost nearly $446,595 for two weeks. Local architect Renato Balaguer humorously highlighted this situation, referencing a dilapidated apartment offered at $10,000 for 11 days as a form of ‘false imprisonment.’ Meanwhile, President Lula has touted this summit as pivotal for climate action, despite growing concerns about accessibility.
Organizers anticipate around 50,000 attendees at the summit from November 10-21. Yet, several canceled reservations have left many environmental groups and activists reevaluating their attendance. Compounding these concerns are instances where booking prices for previously reserved rooms have skyrocketed, such as a nonprofit’s room that doubled from $2,000 to $7,200 shortly after reservation.
Mercy Corps’ deputy communications director expressed the difficulties presented by limited and costly accommodations, which are blocking participation for critical voices in the climate conversation. In response, property owners justify these steep charges by noting high operating costs. However, in light of criticism, the government announced plans to create additional bed spaces through diverse means, like utilizing military facilities and school dormitories.
Nonetheless, some local property managers reject the idea of excessive price increases. Advocates for Belem believe that despite logistical challenges, hosting COP30 will have significant regional benefits, highlighting the importance of discussing the Amazon’s preservation within its own territory. As COP30 nears, there’s hope that both prices will stabilize and more affordable accommodations will become available as government initiatives take shape.
The upcoming COP30 climate summit is set to take place in Belem, Brazil, a city situated on the edge of the Amazon rainforest. Hosted annually by the United Nations, COP meetings focus on global climate action, and this specific event is historic as it returns to the Amazon. With about 50,000 participants expected, Belem’s capacity issues are highlighted due to its less-developed infrastructure compared to previous host cities, raising concerns about accessibility for attendees.
The accommodation price crisis leading up to COP30 in Belem has sparked significant outrage and concern. As exorbitant rates hinder participation from key groups, discussions surround how to ensure equitable access for diverse voices at the summit. With governmental measures in place to improve the lodging situation, attention now shifts to how effective these strategies will be in providing reasonably priced housing for all participants.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
